The Division of Art History studies visual art across diverse historical, cultural, and global contexts. Our students and internationally recognized faculty use an interdisciplinary skill set to unlock art’s significance and gain fundamental insights into human culture and creativity. We promote discovery and innovation in scholarship, respect for and appreciation of diversity, a challenging and vibrant learning environment, and ethical practices in research.
We offer undergraduate and graduate programs that draw upon Seattle’s rich cultural institutions and vibrant arts community. Expansive course offerings reflect the faculty’s broad expertise in areas including but not limited to the Arts of Asia, Art of the Americas, Medieval and Early Modern Art in Europe and the Mediterranean, and Modern and Contemporary Art in a global context.
Undergraduate Programs
The Division of Art History offers a BA major with an honors option as well as a minor in Art History for those pursuing other undergraduate majors.
Bachelor of Arts (BA), Art History
Acquire a broad knowledge of diverse historical and contemporary artistic traditions and receive structured training in foundational skills of art historical analysis, scholarly research, and writing.
Art History Minor
Gain foundational visual literacy skills and a broad knowledge of historically and culturally diverse artistic practices.
Honors in Art History
Forge close ties with faculty mentors and advance knowledge in an area of interest by earning the distinction of Honors in Art History.
Graduate Programs
Prospective applicants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with faculty areas of specialization and to consult with potential advisor(s) via email to discuss how our program might support your specific research interests.
MA, Art History: Practicum Track
Acquire the intellectual tools and broad subject area knowledge necessary to conduct original scholarly research in Art History and to pursue a PhD program.
MA, Art History: Thesis Track
Understand the discipline of Art History and promote the value of the visual arts in cultural, educational, or business settings through applied learning.
PhD, Art History
Advance the discipline of Art History through university-level teaching, curatorial work in museums, and academic scholarship.
Why Study Art History at UW?
Learn to comprehend and communicate about our complex visual world.
Art history teaches students to read, interpret, and synthesize a wide range of evidence, from textual documents to the visual and material features of objects, images, buildings, and other forms of creative expression. Sharpen your critical analysis and written communication skills by exploring how art transmits information and defines cultures past and present.
Get up close and personal with art.
Students work directly with original art objects, archival materials, and architectural sites in our classes, internships, and study abroad programs. Art History graduates can gain administrative, research, and technical training in UW and Seattle arts organizations, including the Jacob Lawrence Gallery, Henry Art Gallery, Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Seattle Art Museum, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Frye Museum, Museum of African Art, Wing Luke Museum, and several commercial galleries.
Prepare for your future.
Art History graduate students develop strong skills in critical analysis, original research, and written and verbal communication, and operate with an informed historical understanding of diverse cultures and practices. Our programs equip students with tools to succeed in various careers, from academia to museums, tech, law, and medicine.
